Menopause

Health needs change as we age. For women, hormonal shifts throughout life cause changes in our bodies — first at menstruation, again in pregnancy and, finally, at menopause — all with different outcomes and medical needs. The women’s health specialists at the St. Charles Center for Women’s Health can help manage each stage of your life, guiding you through these changes and keeping you as comfortable as possible during it all.

Menopause is often the most confusing stage of life for women. As we approach our 30s and 40s, reproductive hormone levels begin to decrease, triggering the onset of menopause and the end of menstruation. But this shift in hormonal levels can also bring new health risks and, for some, uncomfortable symptoms. Many women feel lost during this time, not necessarily connecting bothersome symptoms with menopause, or realizing that those symptoms can be treated. That’s where we come in. Our experts are here to help you understand what this change in life can bring and what treatments are available to reduce symptoms.

What Are Common Menopause Symptoms?

Most symptoms associated with menopause and perimenopause (the months and years leading up to menopause) are due to the reduction in hormone levels mentioned above. Not all women experience symptoms, and most decrease or disappear over time.The most common examples include:

Irregular periods

Hot flashes

Night sweats

Increased anxiety or irritability (changes in mood)

Vaginal dryness

Weight gain

Menopause Treatments

Though menopause is a natural phase of life, it can be very disruptive to some women. For many, learning how to manage symptoms at home can be effective, but some women need additional help. It’s important to bring any concerns you may have about your experience to your doctor to discuss treatment options. At the St. Charles Center for Women’s Health, our specialists will help find the best solution to make you more comfortable during this time of change. Some of our treatment options include:

Hormone replacement therapy

Guidance on lifestyle changes that can help reduce symptoms

Menopausal weight gain support

Calcium supplements and other medications

Alternative therapies

For more information about our services or to schedule an appointment, 541-526-6635.

The St. Charles Center for Women’s Health offers comprehensive health services, including menopause and aging management, to women in central Oregon. Menopause treatments are offered in our Redmond and Prineville offices.